As the global community commemorates World Press Freedom Day, advocacy groups Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE) have joined forces to urge Nigerian authorities to cease the use of repressive laws targeting journalists. Against a backdrop of escalating crackdowns on freedom of expression and media freedom, the call for action emphasizes the imperative of upholding constitutional rights, respecting the rule of law, and fostering an environment conducive to transparent governance and accountability.
In a joint statement issued on World Press Freedom Day, SERAP and NGE underscored their grave concerns regarding the growing threats faced by journalists and media houses across Nigeria. Highlighting instances of extrajudicial detentions, malicious prosecutions, and abuse of legislative and law enforcement powers, the groups condemned the flagrant disregard for fundamental rights and freedoms by government authorities at all levels. Moreover, they emphasized the critical role of press freedom in safeguarding democratic principles, promoting transparency, and holding those in power accountable.
The interactive session organized by SERAP and NGE provided a platform for stakeholders to assess the state of press freedom in Nigeria and chart a course of action to address ongoing challenges. Participants, including senior media professionals, civil society representatives, and legal experts, engaged in robust discussions on the pervasive threats to freedom of expression and media independence. Through a candid exchange of ideas and experiences, the session underscored the urgent need for concerted efforts to protect and uphold the rights of journalists and media practitioners.
Against a backdrop of pervasive censorship and surveillance, SERAP and NGE underscored the urgent need to review existing laws that stifle freedom of expression and undermine media freedom. Specifically, they called for the repeal or amendment of repressive legislation such as the Cybercrimes Act and certain provisions of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) code, which have been wielded as tools of intimidation and harassment against journalists and media organizations. Additionally, they emphasized the importance of strengthening regulatory bodies such as the NBC and Nigerian Press Council to ensure impartial oversight and promote self-regulation within the media industry.
The joint statement issued by SERAP and NGE resonates with broader efforts to protect human rights and uphold democratic values in Nigeria. By calling on government authorities to respect court judgments, review restrictive legislation, and safeguard the independence of regulatory bodies, the advocacy groups seek to create an enabling environment for free and independent journalism. Moreover, they urge the international community to hold Nigerian authorities accountable for violations of press freedom and human rights, underscoring the need for collective action to defend democratic principles and protect the rights of journalists worldwide.
In light of the challenges posed by economic constraints, digital surveillance, and online harassment, SERAP and NGE emphasize the resilience and determination of journalists to fulfill their crucial role as watchdogs of society. They stress the importance of supporting investigative journalism, fostering media pluralism, and ensuring access to information for all citizens. Moreover, they call on state governors to demonstrate their commitment to press freedom by dropping charges against journalists, promoting self-regulation, and upholding the right to freedom of expression within their respective states.
As Nigeria navigates complex socio-political dynamics and contends with evolving security threats, the protection of press freedom remains paramount. SERAP and NGE urge all stakeholders, including government authorities, civil society organizations, and the international community, to join hands in safeguarding the rights of journalists and defending the principles of free speech and independent media. By upholding press freedom as a cornerstone of democracy, Nigeria can chart a path towards greater transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights.
In conclusion, the joint statement issued by SERAP and NGE serves as a clarion call for action to protect press freedom in Nigeria. As the country commemorates World Press Freedom Day, it is incumbent upon all stakeholders to uphold the principles of free speech, promote media independence, and defend the rights of journalists to report without fear or intimidation. Through collective action and unwavering commitment to democratic values, Nigeria can build a society where press freedom thrives and citizens are empowered to participate fully in shaping their collective future.